Daines Urges Airlines to Increase Flights from Montana for FCS Championship Game

• December 19, 2025

Presses Airlines to Give Montana Fans "A Chance to Witness History"

U.S. SENATE - U.S. Senator Steve Daines today led a letter with Senator Tim Sheehy and Representatives Ryan Zinke (MT-01) and Troy Downing (MT-02) to airline CEOs urging them to increase flight options from Montana to Nashville, Tennessee, in advance of the FCS National Championship Game. The letter was sent to the CEOs of Delta, American, Southwest, and United.

"History will be made this Saturday in Bozeman, Montana. For the first time, the University of Montana Grizzlies and the Montana State University Bobcats football teams will meet in the postseason with the winner earning themselves a spot in the NCAA Division I Football Championship in Nashville, Tennessee on January 5, 2026…

"…though the game has yet to be played, we do know a Montana school will be heading to Nashville for the championship game regardless of the outcome. And although Montana will be a state divided this weekend, both Cats and Griz fans can agree that there's nothing like watching and cheering on your team in-person. Unfortunately, current air service options to Nashville from Montana in the days leading up to the game are limited and liable to sell out quickly. That is why we are asking that your airlines work to increase service to and from Montana for the big game.

"By increasing access to affordable air service, you will be giving Montana fans of all ages the chance to witness history. As proud Montanans, we hope all fans will be able to take part in this special moment with their team.

"Thank you for your consideration and may the best team win!" they wrote in the letter.

Read the full letter HERE.

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